DFAX vs VYM
Dimensional World ex US Core Equity 2 ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. DFAX delivered stronger 1-year returns. DFAX offers more diversification with 10,538 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFAX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.28% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $12.7B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.34% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 10,538 | 613 | |
| YTD Return | +15.67% | +14.18% | |
| 1Y Return | +28.02% | +20.67% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.05% | +18.47% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.17% | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.2% | 14.5% | |
| Max Drawdown | -28.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 6, 2008 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DFAX vs VYM Performance
Dimensional World ex US Core Equity 2 ETF (DFAX) is a ETF from Dimensional and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DFAX returned +28.02% while VYM returned +20.67%. Year to date, DFAX is up 15.67% versus a gain of 14.18% for VYM.
Over three years, DFAX compounded at +21.05% per year against +18.47% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +10.17% and +12.01% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, DFAX has the edge at +10.17% annualized vs +6.97%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFAX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.2% compared with 14.5% for VYM. Lower volatility generally means a smoother ride, though it often comes with lower long-run returns.
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -28.1% for DFAX and -58.8% for VYM. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
The two funds' monthly returns correlate at 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFAX charges 0.28% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $28 vs $4 annually, a gap of $24 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFAX currently yields 2.34% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DFAX and VYM share 14 holdings out of 10722 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFAX or VYM?
DFAX has an expense ratio of 0.28% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $24 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFAX or VYM?
Over the past year DFAX returned +28.02% vs +20.67% for VYM, so DFAX leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DFAX annualized +10.17% vs +6.97% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFAX or VYM?
DFAX has been the more volatile fund at 15.2% annualized versus 14.5% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DFAX -28.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DFAX and VYM?
DFAX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFAX and VYM?
DFAX and VYM share 14 common holdings with a 0.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 10722 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFAX or VYM?
DFAX yields 2.34% while VYM yields 2.24%, so DFAX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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